Commissioners of the revenue across the state recently wrapped up another friendly competition to help fight against hunger.

More than 30 commissioners of the revenue took part in the Commissioners & Cans initiative in August. Marking its seventh year, the statewide food and fund drive had commissioners compete to raise donations in support of local food banks.

The initiative was launched in 2018 by Tiffany Boyle, the commissioner of the revenue for Newport News. That year, the drive raised $7,189 and collected 9,052 pounds of food. The project was the recipient of the Community Volunteer Group award during the 49th Annual Hampton Roads Volunteer Achievement Awards in April.

“It’s a fun competition between us to see who can raise the most food and funds, so that we can all do our part in helping fight to stop hunger,” Boyle said.

Tiffany Boyle, Newport News commissioner of the revenue, (back left) joins office staff for Commissioners & Cans. Boyle started the project back in 2018 to help fight against hunger. Courtesy of the City of Newport News

This year’s food drive supported seven major Virginia food banks: Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, Feed More, Feeding Southwest Virginia, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, Goochland Cares and Arlington Food Assistance Center.

While commissioners did not have a specific total as their goal, they want to continue topping the results for each year, Boyle said. Last year, Williamsburg ranked as the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank’s regional leader with $500 raised and 47 pounds donated. The overall competition winner for 2024 was the City of Covington with $713 and 370 pounds.

Michele Mixner DeWitt, Williamsburg’s commissioner of the revenue, said her team is always excited for the project. Williamsburg has been part of the initiative since its inception.

“They know it’s coming and they are happy to help others,” DeWitt said. “We’re just thrilled and hats off again to Tiffany for starting this initiative. It’s very well received here.”

Michele Mixner DeWitt, Williamsburg commissioner of the revenue, along with deputy commissioners Elizabeth Hula and Tami Flowers and City Management Technician Andrew Wheeler, took part in the Commissioners & Cans initiative. Courtesy of the City of Williamsburg

This year’s competition results are still being totaled. While the competition has ended, residents can still provide donations to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/team/williamsburgcor or hrfoodbank.org.

James W. Robinson, 757-799-0621, james.robinson@virginiamedia.com

https://www.dailypress.com/2025/09/04/virginia-commissioners-of-the-revenue-food-drive/